As a parent, I was puzzled when a letter arrived from the GGD inviting my teenage son for an interview. He looked at me quizzically too. I speculated on reasons, including his underweight status.
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Now in his second year of high school, the invitation caught us off guard. The GGD letter explained that my son had completed a school questionnaire and undergone measurements, leading to this follow-up interview based on the results.
I double-checked if he'd reported feeling unwell or any issues in the questionnaire—common triggers for such invites. He hadn't, which was reassuring. While I know my son well, parenting teaches you there's always more to learn. The thought of hidden struggles worried me deeply, for his sake most of all.
Then it clicked: his underweight was likely the reason. At average height, he rarely gets sick, so I wasn't overly concerned. But buying pants is a challenge—most jeans slip off despite tight waistbands.
Evidently, his low weight flagged him for review. He asked me to accompany him, a positive sign he had nothing to hide.
The GGD invitation surprised me, but I remained calm about his underweight. At 1.60m and 36kg, his BMI is 14—well below average, per standard charts and the Nutrition Centre. Yet, I believe holistic assessment matters: overall health trumps numbers alone.
Underweight often runs in families—many slim kids have lean parents, past or present. If your child is healthy, rarely ill, energetic, growing steadily, eating adequately, and active, concerns may be minimal.
My hunch proved right. Despite bordering on severe underweight, the GGD professional saw no need for follow-up.
Attending together was valuable. My son, Luc, has faced bullying over his slim build—nicknamed 'Bone,' it led to a school fight once. Though past it now, he appreciated GGD and my advice: focus on proteins.
Results show: he snacks on custard, eggs, adds butter to bread, extra fruit. He still enjoys chips and cookies too—they disappear fast!
If your underweight child shows stunted growth or frequent illness, consult a doctor or dietitian promptly. They'll assess nutrition and health, easing worries if all checks out.
